About YBG Foundation
History
Meet our Board
Andrew Cross
Andrew Cross is the Founder and Executive Director of the YBG Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating life-changing opportunities for youth through education, mentorship, and the global game of basketball.
Raised in a single-parent household and growing up in poverty, Andrew learned early that nothing would be handed to him. Through discipline, belief, and relentless work, he built himself into a self-made entrepreneur and spent over a decade coaching and mentoring youth in competitive AAU basketball. That experience exposed him to a deeper truth: talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not.
Through YBG Foundation, Andrew is building an opportunity pipeline for underserved youth—both locally and internationally—by using basketball as a bridge to education, leadership development, and global connection. The foundation provides access to elite academic environments, travel basketball programs, mentorship, and critical resources for students who would otherwise be locked out by financial barriers.
Andrew’s vision extends beyond borders. By forming international partnerships and traveling abroad to connect with young athletes and families, he is committed to helping youth believe in what once felt impossible—and giving them the tools to make it real.
EJ Young
Director of Programs
EJ Young serves as Director of Programs for YBG Foundation and brings more than 30 years of playing and coaching experience to the organization. A 1,000-point scorer and multiple-time First Team All-Region point guard at Lumpkin County High School, EJ went on to play at Toccoa Falls College before dedicating himself to youth development.
A staple in the Lumpkin County basketball community, EJ has long been recognized as a leader both on and off the court. His passion for mentorship and commitment to developing young athletes have made him a steady presence in local basketball culture.
As Director of Programs, EJ oversees the foundation’s youth initiatives, ensuring that every program emphasizes discipline, leadership, and long-term development beyond the game.
Bobby Burnett
Director of Operations
Bobby Burnett, widely known as “Bobby Buckets,” brings over 30 years of playing and coaching experience to YBG Foundation. A respected figure in Lumpkin County basketball, Bobby has coached athletes from second grade through high school, developing players at every stage of their growth.
Recognized as one of the top three-point shooters to come out of Lumpkin County, Bobby’s reputation extends beyond his skill on the court. He is known for his versatility, work ethic, and genuine care for young athletes. Always willing to take on a challenge, Bobby has earned the trust of families and players throughout the community.
As Director of Operations, he provides the structure that keeps YBG programs running smoothly—overseeing logistics, scheduling, and partnerships to ensure that the foundation’s mission is executed with excellence and discipline.